Welsh Conservatives say they offer the only alternative to Labour

Nick Bourne argued at the party's conference in Bournemouth that decision-making should be localised.

He said power must be given to "every street, every community, and every town or village".

Meanwhile, shadow Welsh secretary Cheryl Gillan MP said the May elections were "a litmus test" for the party.

Mr Bourne, who is Mid and West Wales AM, said the assembly elections were a "watershed, defining moment" for the party.

He also presented the Welsh Conservatives as the only credible alternative to a "tired, lost" Labour government next May.

He said the party would pledge to hold a review of the Welsh Language Act as part of the party's commitment to creating a "truly bilingual Wales".

Other policy areas included the environment - promoting greater recycling and use of public transport - and "choice" in the health service and over schools.

CONSERVATIVE WEEK Monday Hot topic: Marketing to children Public services debate David Davis, Crime debate Hot topic: Cheap flights Environment debate Tuesday Hot topic: Alcohol and drugs Social justice debate Business in society George Osborne, economy William Hague, Liam Fox, foreign affairs Devolution debate Wednesday Culture of creativity Hot topic: Globalisation Global poverty debate Leader's speech

Mr Bourne said "local control" was part of the vision for a modern, progressive, dynamic Wales.

"We will push the boundaries of devolution as far as they can go, giving the people of Wales a real say in their own futures," he said.

"Choice for people to live their lives without the over-bearing influence of central government and the nanny state."

Meanwhile, Mrs Gillan warned that Labour would "use every dirty trick in the book" to divert attention from their "miserable record".

Mrs Gillan said the May election was a "litmus test" for the whole party.

"The Welsh Conservative Party can lead by example," she added.

"We must, and will, translate that success into more seats and more votes on May 3.

"While Labour members bicker like badly behaved toddlers about their party leadership, Conservatives are getting on with the job.